According to Del Taco's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, as of October 1, 2023, the company's goodwill was valued at $329.986 million. Goodwill, in this context, represents the intangible assets of Del Taco, such as brand reputation and customer loyalty, that exceed its tangible assets.

For a prospective franchisee, understanding the goodwill value is crucial because it reflects the perceived value and strength of the Del Taco brand. A higher goodwill suggests a strong brand presence and customer recognition, which can positively impact the franchisee's ability to attract customers and generate revenue. However, it's important to note that goodwill can be subjective and may be subject to impairment, as indicated elsewhere in the financial statements.

The FDD also mentions that during the third quarter of 2024, a triggering event led to a quantitative test, resulting in an impairment of goodwill of $162.6 million for the Del Taco reporting unit. This highlights the risk that goodwill can decrease if the brand's performance declines or market conditions change. Franchisees should monitor the brand's performance and market trends to assess the ongoing value of the goodwill associated with their investment.

In summary, while a high goodwill value can be an attractive feature of a franchise, prospective Del Taco franchisees should also be aware of the factors that can influence goodwill and the potential for impairment. They should conduct thorough due diligence to assess the long-term value and stability of the brand.